# Why election day is quiet

> Election day rules silence social media and campaigning to protect voters.
- Title: Why election day is quiet · RNZ | Shortify
- Summary: Election day rules silence social media and campaigning to protect voters. New Zealand bans social media posts and campaigning on election day to prevent…
- Keywords: new zealand, election day, electoral commission, voting rules, social media, ballot, polling place, party colours, voter privacy, election campaign, RNZ
- Source: RNZ — https://rnz.co.nz/news/politics_election-2026/2391896/explainer-why-you-won-t-hear-much-about-the-election-on-election-day
- Author: RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa
- Published: 2026-11-06T19:57:32+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: new zealand, election day, electoral commission, voting rules, social media, ballot, polling place, party colours, voter privacy, election campaign, politics, news
## Election day rules
New Zealand bans social media posts and campaigning on election day to protect voters.
## Campaigning restrictions
No signs, demonstrations, or social media posts can influence voters on election day.
## Mona Krewel's view
Mona Krewel, a senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington Te Herenga Waka, says election day should be quiet.

> I think there is a good argument for giving voters a bit of peace and quiet on election day
## Penalties for breaking rules
Violating election day rules can lead to fines up to $20,000 under the Electoral Act 1993.
## Social media restrictions
No social media posts about your vote are allowed from midnight to 7pm on election day.
## Existing content rules
Old social media content doesn't need removal but must not be updated on election day.
## Voting place rules
No free food, drink, or entertainment is allowed within 100 metres of polling places.
## Voter privacy
Publishing photos of people voting is prohibited to protect voter privacy.
## Election day after effects
After voting, leave the polling place immediately to avoid disruptions.
## Electoral Commission advice
The Electoral Commission handles complaints about election day rule violations.
## Mona Krewel's conclusion
Election day restrictions give voters peace from campaign noise.

> We're essentially talking about a temporary restriction of just one day
## Key takeaway

New Zealand bans social media posts and campaigning on election day to prevent voter influence.